Aflion Carrot vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can greatly influence your typing and gaming experience. The Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its long, two-stage spring that provides a uniquely bouncy tactile feedback, creating a satisfying and responsive feel with a mid-pitched, firm sound that many users find engaging. Its clacky and high-pitched characteristics add a playful dimension to key presses, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more tactile and auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a stark contrast with its smooth linear design. Constructed entirely from POM material, this switch delivers a deep "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke, making it highly desirable for users who favor a quieter and more fluid typing experience. While the Carrot excels in providing distinct feedback and auditory feedback, the WS POM+ stands out for its seamless performance and satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, one can observe notable differences that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS POM+ employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) material for its top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a crisp and clear sound profile, particularly beneficial when integrated with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the POM top housing produces a sound that is deeper and more muted. This fundamental difference in top housing materials means that while both switches provide unique sound signatures, the Carrot’s sharper notes contrast with the WS POM+’s more subdued tones.

The bottom housing of the two models further illustrates their material divergence. The Aflion Carrot features a nylon bottom housing, which is a traditional choice in switch design, known for delivering a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature. This quality allows it to absorb more sound and produce a rounder acoustic experience upon bottoming out. In contrast, the WS POM+ also utilizes a POM material for its bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. The shared POM material between the WS POM+ top and bottom housing creates a cohesive sound profile that remains consistent throughout the switch’s function, while the Carrot’s nylon bottom adds a unique dimension to its acoustic output.

In essence, the combination of materials used in the Aflion Carrot and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ results in distinctly different auditory experiences. While both switches manage to produce deeper sound profiles, the Carrot’s use of polycarbonate and nylon means its overall sound is clearer and more resonant, whereas the WS POM+, with its consistent POM composition, offers a more uniform and muted tone. If enthusiasts seek similar results in terms of sound quality and experience, they might consider utilizing different configurations or adding acoustic dampening features to the Carrot. However, the inherent characteristics of the materials will still create a satisfying auditory distinction between the two switch designs.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for those who prefer long typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS POM+ requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer. This trend continues with the bottom out forces: the Carrot's bottom out force is 45 grams, while the WS POM+ has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. Thus, for users prioritizing a lighter touch to enhance comfort over extended use, the Aflion Carrot is the better choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a firmer feedback and a more tactile typing experience will find the WS POM+ more to their liking.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Carrot switch provides a more pronounced feedback due to its longer travel, making it a better choice for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch, with its travel distance of 3.6 mm, caters to users seeking quicker response times, often preferred by gamers and those who favor rapid key presses. Although both switches can deliver a satisfactory performance based on individual preferences, the Carrot switch is the longer of the two, offering a deeper keystroke feel, while the WS POM+ is the shorter option designed for enhanced responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch delivers a mid-pitched, firm profile characterized by a clacky, sharp tone that can be bright and percussive. This sound signature contributes to a more engaging typing experience, but it tends to lean toward a higher-pitched sound that can be less desirable for those who prefer lower, richer tones. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch produces a deep thocky sound that is rich and satisfying. Its low-pitched, bass-heavy acoustics create a more muted auditory experience that’s ideal for environments where you might want to keep noise levels lower, especially compared to the clack of the Carrot.

In terms of feel, the Carrot switch stands out with its bouncy, responsive characteristics. The use of a long, two-stage spring provides not only a lively typing experience but also a unique stepped tactile sensation, which feels more nuanced than hypertactile switches. It offers a noticeable tactile bump that enhances feedback during use. On the other hand, the WS POM+ is known for its buttery and silky feel, offering a remarkably smooth keystroke experience. The absence of resistance in the actuation makes it feel effortless, allowing for more fluid typing. This switch doesn't have a tactile bump like the Carrot, which makes it feel incredibly refined but less lively.

In summary, while both the Aflion Carrot and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Carrot’s high-pitched clackiness and bouncy tactile feel create an engaging typing environment, perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a lively sound profile. Conversely, the WS POM+ provides a soothing thock sound and smooth keystroke that is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more refined typing experience without the tactile bump. Depending on your taste, both switches will bring unique qualities to your mechanical keyboard that can significantly enhance your overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lively, bouncy typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Carrot switch is an excellent choice. Its snappy feedback and clacky sound profile can make typing or gaming feel more engaging and dynamic, perfect for those who appreciate a tactile sensation and an audible click. However, if you prefer a smoother, more subdued typing experience with a deeper, thocky sound, the WS POM+ may be the better option. With its medium-light actuation and silky keystrokes, this switch is ideal for those who want a refined and satisfying typing experience, especially in quieter environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth, cushioned sensation, as well as the acoustics you desire in your keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.90 per 10

Learn more